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Classifieds scam alert

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Make something useful and there’ll always be someone who tries to use it for nefarious purposes. And unfortunately the BM classified system is no exception. We’ve had a few mails from members who’ve advertised bikes or parts for sale and received something along these lines:

Hello,

In reference to your ads am interested in your advertise Specialized S-Works M5 (2002) i will like to know the present condition and the cost of selling.My method of payment is a cheque drawn from UK in which after clearance the shippment can be arrange with my shipping company who will be coming for the shippment.If this is okay by you do e-mail me along with your information (full name,contact address and your phone number) along with the pics so that we can proceed on the shippment.Hope to read from you soonest.
Regards.

The form of words may not be exactly the same but the gist is consistent (the name of the product will obviously change). It’s a front for a variety of scams and dubious deals, so if you get something like this just delete it. Giveaway signs are references to a “shipping company” and a sale to someone overseas paid for with a UK cheque.

We’re investigating ways to solve this issue, but in the meantime be vigilant. If you’re in any doubt about the legitimacy of a deal, leave it. And remember the old rule of thumb – if it looks too good to be true, it probably is…

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